Sylius, known for its flexibility and modern approach to eCommerce, offers a robust foundation for online stores. Nonetheless, Sylius does not offer the full capabilities typical of a CMS. The only native functions that we can consider CMS elements are:
- possibility to generate coupons and promotions
- product information management (names, descriptions)
- content of transaction emails (available with the Mollie payment plugin)
A lack of a built-in CMS can be problematic when running an eCommerce store. However, it is possible to integrate Sylius with external solutions or install plugins that will quickly solve this problem.
Quick Jump
SyliusCMSPlugin
The first plugin that can be implemented is SyliusCMSPlugin by BitBag. It is an open-source solution that aims to increase the functionality and flexibility of a Sylius-based eCommerce platform by providing a comprehensive content management solution. It integrates seamlessly with existing configurations, offering a range of features for simple site content management. The plugin has already been downloaded more than 670,000 times.
KEY FUNCTIONALITIES
Blocks
Ability to add dynamic blocks with images, text, or HTML code, create information pages, and manage frequently asked questions.
Blog
A possibility to create a blog, which is increasingly an important part of the marketing and sales strategy of many eCommerce businesses.
Pages
Manage custom pages on your Sylius store website. Whether you want to add an “About us” page, a “Contact us” page, or other custom content, the CMS plugin simplifies the process by streamlining content management.
Media
Easy upload and manage various types of multimedia. This includes, for instance, images, videos, and other multimedia elements that can be used in blocks and pages.
Editing
Users can effortlessly edit content with the WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editor and upload images directly in the admin panel.
Sections
The plugin allows you to group blocks of content into logical sections, creating an orderly and easier-to-navigate site, which in turn affects the user experience.
Site Map
Simple site map management, making it easy to take care of site accessibility and search engine optimization (SEO). The CMS plugin allows you to dynamically generate a site map that adapts to changes in website content.
Using Twig features in the admin panel
Harness the power of Twig features directly from your admin panel for more advanced customization options without having to delve into the code base.
Customization
Last but not least, this plugin is designed with flexibility in mind and offers a range of customization options to fit specific requirements.
The SyliusCMSPlugin by BitBag plugin can be found in the SyliusStore, and installation instructions are available on GitHub.
External CMS systems
In addition to plugins, Sylius-based eCommerce owners can rely on integrations with third-party CMS systems. In the case of Sylius, CMS systems based on the headless approach are the most common option.
Headless Approach: It is a solution that separates the front-end and back-end of eCommerce applications. It means that the store’s presentation layer (front-end) is completely decoupled from critical processes such as inventory management, transaction processing, and shipping (back-end). What’s more, it allows you to create several independent applications specialized in their fields that work together as part of one integrated architecture based on API communication.
On-premise solutions
On-premise CMS solutions involve content management systems that are installed and run on a company’s own hardware and servers, offering complete control over the infrastructure and data. These solutions provide enhanced security and customization options, as they are tailored to the specific needs. However, it may involve higher maintenance costs in comparison to cloud solutions.
Sulu CMS
- Software: Open-source
- Programming language: PHP, Symfony
- Pricing: Free
Sulu CMS is a content management system that enables users to create and manage digital content such as websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms. It is built on the PHP Symfony framework and uses modern web technologies to provide a flexible and expandable platform for creating digital experiences.
Sulu CMS is designed for companies with complex websites for online business and for websites where speed and efficiency are key factors.
KEY FUNCTIONALITIES
Live preview
The visual editor allows users to preview content in real-time on a variety of devices, making it easier for non-technical users to understand how content will be displayed on mobiles, tablets, and computers.
Multilanguage
The ability to create and publish content in different languages.
Multiple websites
Create and manage any number of websites through a single installation.
SEO capabilities
Sulu provides a set of tools necessary to optimize content for SEO, which makes it much easier to manage the site and achieve high positions in Google search rankings.
Website creator
Create a landing page with custom URLs and tracking codes, as well as pages and microsites without any coding skills.
ADVANTAGES OF SULU CMS
User-friendly interface
Intuitive interface makes managing content easy even without technical knowledge.
Native functionalities
The necessary digital marketing tools have been built into the core of the system, which means there is no need to install additional plugins for this task.
Personalization
Sulu CMS provides built-in features for segmenting and targeting content to specific groups. It allows you to create and manage target groups, presenting them with relevant content they should see.
Performance
Sulu is an effective and scalable solution, making it suitable both for simple sites and more complex eCommerce projects that connect multiple websites and services.
Analytics
Easy integrations with numerous analytics tools.
WHO USES SULU?
Netgen Layouts
- Software: Open-source/Enterprise
- Programming language: PHP
- Price: Open Core, MIT license (free); Enterprise Netgen Commercial License (custom pricing)
Netgen Layouts is rather a niche tool focused on certain specifications. It is not a standalone content management system (CMS) but a layout management tool. Netgen Layouts is an application based entirely on Symfony that can be integrated with other Symfony applications such as Sylius and Ibexa DXP or integrated with other headless information systems such as Contentful.
Netgen Layouts will be a good choice for everyone who needs to create and manage complex websites such as magazines, information pages, corporate websites, and online stores but does not have programming knowledge.
KEY FUNCTIONALITIES
User roles and policy management
Ability to define and assign different levels of access and permissions to various users or groups, ensuring that each user has appropriate access rights based on their role within the organization or system.
Layout translations and mappings groups
Adapt layouts to support multiple languages and assign specific layouts to different user groups or contexts for a more personalized and localized user experience,
Hide blocks and schedule visibility of block items
Dynamic control over the visibility of certain content blocks within your website or application according to current needs.
Change layout type on an existing layout
Modify the structural design of a current layout without needing to create a new one from scratch.
Restore the archived version of a layout
This feature allows users to retrieve and reinstate a previously saved layout version. This functionality is crucial for reverting to earlier designs or content arrangements, offering a safety net by preserving past versions that can be restored in case of errors or changes in requirements.
ADVANTAGES OF NETGEN LAYOUTS
Drag-and-drop interface
Thanks to the intuitive drag-and-drop interface, managing page blocks becomes a piece of cake. This allows site builders and editors to perform tasks that usually require programmers. It provides easy layout and block management while maintaining the flexibility required to add new features and functionality to complex web projects.
Security
Netgen Layouts is built with security in mind. It is secured against various online threats with security features such as input filtering that prevents SQL Injection and Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks.
Reusable blocks
Using a set of reusable blocks, you can create a variety of websites more efficiently, automate content visibility, and offer additional features.
Integration
Netgen Layouts also enables integration with other Symfony applications, such as Ibexa/eZ Platform CMS or Sylius framework, or with independent headless systems, such as Contentful CMS.
WHO USES NETGEN LAYOUTS?
Ibexa Headless (Content)
- Software: Open-source/Enterprise
- Programming language: PHP Symfony
- Price: Starting from € 30k/year
Ibexa Headless, formerly Ibexa Content, is a headless content management system for businesses that need advanced content management tools. Ibexa Headless is multi-channel, so content managers can deliver it to any channel.
Ibexa Headless is a suitable solution for online information services, online stores, and corporate websites that have complex content needs and want to reach their audiences at various touch points.
(Ibexa Headless is available in two versions: on-premise or cloud)
KEY FUNCTIONALITIES
Advanced Content Modeling
Advanced content modeling allows users to easily create complex content structures.
Multilanguage
Ibexa provides solid support in creating and publishing content in many languages.
Image Editor
A simple and intuitive image editor allows businesses to edit uploaded images for size and orientation, or focal point.
Multiple Sites
The ability to configure multiple sites in a single installation so that employees from different departments/countries can use the same company resources like images by placing them on a different language version of the site.
Page Builder
Create a new product, brand, or even a new website without programming knowledge (after configuring website designs).
Search Engine
A simple and intuitive search engine that makes work easier for a team with large content repositories – quickly search and browse content by hierarchy and mark the content with a star symbol to keep track of it.
Automated Workflow
Define and automate tasks as a part of content creation and publishing. Collaborate with authors, editors, and copywriters to streamline the process of checking content, submitting feedback, and publishing.
Effective Teamwork
Ibexa provides access to tools such as quick overview, version control and comparison, content calendar, and custom user permissions to manage access, editing and publishing.
ADVANTAGES OF IBEXA HEADLESS
Dedicated Tools Facilitating Teamwork
Thanks to built-in tools, Ibexa makes it possible to coordinate different types of content and its localization, as well as to work effectively as a team, which is extremely important when it comes to content creation.
Developer-friendly
The modular architecture allows developers to expand and modify the system according to business needs.
Smart Management
Ibexa gives you the ability to separate content so you can make changes to channels separately. It allows web content to be sent outside of your website, including mobile devices, social media, and even distribution channels. It is the perfect solution for smart management.
Security
The system provides a coherent website code base, thanks to which any changes on the website do not involve high risk. Service teams can fix possible bugs and vulnerabilities without any disruptions.
Multi-channel Support
Content can be delivered through a variety of channels and touchpoints like websites or mobile apps.
WHO USES IBEXA DXP?
If you want to learn more about Ibexa DXP, click here or contact us
Cloud solutions
Now, let’s take a look at content management systems based on the cloud. Cloud solutions are Ideal for businesses of all sizes; they streamline content workflows and reduce IT costs as we do not have to worry about maintenance and resources. However, they may be insufficient for large companies and enterprises with advanced needs.
Storyblok
- Software: SaaS
- Programming language: Vue.js and JavaScript
- Price: Community (free), Commercial versions (pricing)
Storyblok is another easy-to-use solution that offers a wide range of possibilities. Its headless architecture enables businesses to scale and adapt to current trends and technologies easily. It can also be customized to fit your workflows and manage all your content from one place. Forrester and Gartner analyzed Storyblock.
Storyblok is suitable not only for developers but also for marketers and content creators aiming for an omnichannel strategy.
KEY FUNCTIONALITIES
Multiple channels
Storyblock offers the necessary features for developing and expanding customer experiences across multiple channels. This makes it easy to reach your customers across all sales channels and create personalized shopping experiences.
Personalization
Easily personalize your eCommerce strategy with composable personalization. Work with localization and personalization solutions such as Localize or Optimizely, or use Storyblok’s native localization features.
SEO
CMS offers a set of tools needed for SEO, which greatly facilitates the operation of the website and getting a high position in search engines.
Live preview
The visual editor allows users to preview content in real-time, making it easier for non-technical users to understand how content will be displayed on mobile devices, tablets, and computers.
ADVANTAGES OF STORYBLOK
API-driven
API interfaces make it easy for developers to integrate with any application. Storyblock offers GraphQL APIs, REST APIs, API management, native integrations, and comprehensive SDKs frontend.
Extensions
Storyblock can be customized to meet the specific needs of the store thanks to the ability to extend CMS functions with ready-made or custom plugins.
Intuitive interface
No programming knowledge is necessary for operating this CMS. Non-technical people such as editors or marketers can easily manage content on the site.
WHO USES STORYBLOK?
Popular websites:
eCommerce:
Prismic
- Software: SaaS
- Programming language: JavaScript, Graph QL
Prismic is not just another Content Management System (CMS); it’s a headless website builder designed to empower both developers and marketers. With its cloud-based interface and deep integration with modern web frameworks like Next.js and Nuxt.js, Prismic offers a seamless experience for launching and iterating websites faster.
Prismic will be a good choice for non-technical users who want to create websites, blogs, or applications where content will be frequently modified or added.
KEY FUNCTIONALITIES
Custom Page Builder
Prismic Page Builder enables you to create customizable web pages without extensive coding skills. “Slice machine” in Page Builder makes content easy to edit and maintain. A “slice” in Prismic terminology is a reusable, modular component that can be used to build web pages. Slices can contain anything from simple text and images to more complex elements like carousels, forms, or even entire sections of a webpage. Changes are done
locally without affecting the live version of a website.
Publication schedule and preview
Possibility to preview and schedule the day and time of publication of a given content.
Change history
Access to the history of changes, identification of the author of these changes, and their ability to undo them.
SEO
The SEO tool makes it easy to manage SEO elements such as meta titles and descriptions, URLs, keywords, etc.
Multi-language support
Localization support allows users to create content in different languages. This is particularly useful for global companies that need to localize their content for different markets.
ADVANTAGES OF PRISMIC
Extensive documentation
Prismic’s documentation is easy to navigate and contains a lot of helpful guidelines that improve workflow.
Intuitive interface
The interface is transparent and easy to use, making it easy for non-technical people such as editors and marketers, to publish and edit content.
Performance
A headless approach results in choosing the most optimal tech stack for the website. Thanks to the integration with Next and Nuxt, developers can build websites with a greater focus on performance.
WHO USES PRISMIC?
Popular websites
eCommerce
Contentful
- Software: SaaS
- Programming language: JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, Java, Ruby, PHP
- Price: Free, Basic ($300/per month), Premium (custom price/year)
Contentful is another headless CMS that enables developers to use APIs to manage and integrate content across multiple devices and platforms. The technology provides great flexibility in creating content infrastructure and enables full control over its management. Contentful is based on microservices, which guarantees that any possible errors or failures will not affect the operation of the entire application but only a specific part of it. In addition, Contentful works perfectly with other cutting-edge technologies, enabling integration with various API services.
Contentful will be a good solution for both traditional and custom eCommerce projects because it gives you the ability to integrate with other tools and platforms. Contentful will also be a good choice for companies that want to enter foreign markets with their offer because it supports many languages.
KEY FUNCTIONALITIES
Live preview
The visual editor allows users to preview content in real-time, making it easier for non-technical users to understand how content will be displayed on mobile devices, tablets, and computers.
Experience Builder
It is a powerful tool that enables users to create and manage digital content through a visual interface, allowing for easy design and layout customization.
AI image generator
Generate photos/images using OpenAI’s artificial intelligence and use them on the eCommerce website.
AI content generator
Content creation using mentioned artificial intelligence that adapts content to a brand’s style and translates it into nearly 100 languages.
AI content types generator
Designing and building content models using AI.
Visualizations
Possibility to plan, build, test, and visualize content in a single workflow.
ADVANTAGES OF CONTENTFUL
Integrations
The ability to integrate with other tools and platforms, such as frontend frameworks, eCommerce platforms, digital asset management systems, analytics tools, marketing automation tools, and more.
Personalized experiences
Contentful, as the name suggests, gives you control over your content and empowers you to craft personalized user experiences across various platforms. Contentful CMS seamlessly connects with top PIM and eCommerce systems to address all digital commerce requirements.
Multilanguage capabilities
APIs allow content to be downloaded in specific languages based on user preferences or regional settings.
WHO USES CONTENTFUL?
Popular websites
eCommerce
The risks of running a Sylius store without a CMS
As an open-source platform, Sylius development requires a minimum intermediate level of technical knowledge and code-writing skills. This means that without a CMS solution in place, many content creation tasks will require the work of a programmer.
Risks associated with the lack of a CMS system:
- Creating and publishing content takes more time
- Very limited SEO capabilities
- Higher platform management costs
- Longer time to market because developers are also focusing on managing content
A properly configured Sylius-based store can save you a lot of trouble and, above all, ensure good sales results thanks to well-prepared and presented marketing and sales content.
Summary
Content management systems (CMS) have become a key component of website management, offering users a variety of tools for publishing, editing, and organizing content. In this review, we have discussed the solutions that Sylius uses most often. Nonetheless, there are other decent options on the market available so do not take the CMS described above as the only viable choice.
A business owner should consider the individual needs, preferences, and level of technical expertise before making a choice. The final choice of a content management system should be based on an in-depth analysis of your needs and the capabilities of a particular system in the context of your project.
Keep in mind that new systems and updates to existing solutions are regularly introduced to the market, which means that the best CMS today may not be the best tomorrow. Therefore, it’s important to stay ahead of trends and develop your knowledge of available tools.
In conclusion, the choice of a content management system is a crucial decision that can affect the success or failure of an eCommerce project. Careful analysis and a thoughtful approach are key when making this important decision. No matter what CMS is chosen, it is important to remember to configure, manage, and update it properly so that the site can perform its tasks effectively.